Do I Need to Top Off the Refrigerant in My Air Conditioner?

Spring has just begun, and though temperatures are still on the cooler side, you may be thinking about prepping your air conditioner for warmer weather. A common question many homeowners have about their air conditioner is whether or not they need to top off their refrigerant. To answer this question, it’s important that we first explain the role of refrigerant.

What Is It?

Refrigerant is a “heat transfer fluid,” meaning that it absorbs the heat from your indoor air and transfers it outside, cooling the air down. That cooled air is this recirculated back into your home to provide the cooling effect you feel. Your refrigerant is circulated around your AC system to cool your air, year after year. No refrigerant is lost in the process. Therefore, no, there is no need to “top off” your refrigerant. However, it is possible to experience a refrigerant leak, which is a serious issue that should be tackled right away.

How Do I Know If I Have a Leak?

The following factors are signs that you may be experience a refrigerant leak that needs to be repaired:

• Your supply ducts/registers are blowing out hot air even when your air conditioner is running and your thermostat is set to cool.
• Water has accumulated on the floor by your furnace due to condensation.
• Your home takes too long to cool off, if it ever does.
• Ice has built up on the copper lines running from your AC to indoor coil.
• You’ve noticed higher than average electric bills due to your AC running longer than normal to cool your home.

What Do I Do?

HVAC professionals will check for refrigerant leaks during your maintenance appointment. However, if you haven’t scheduled a maintenance appointment in at least the last year, and/or you suspect a refrigerant leak, then you’ll want to contact a professional.

Call Bell Plumbing and Heating today to schedule air conditioning repairs in Denver, CO.